With leather, satisfaction is determined not by color, but by the finish. Two armchairs can look identical and have developed completely differently after three years. The difference lies in how heavily the surface has been sealed.
The three finishes
- Aniline leather. Dyed through only, without an opaque layer. It feels warm and open, shows the natural grain including insect bites and wrinkles, but absorbs every drop. It develops the most beautiful patina and is the least forgiving.
- Semi-aniline. Lightly pigmented, meaning with a thin protective layer. This is the compromise that is right for most living spaces: still soft and lively, but more resistant.
- Pigmented or covered. With a closed color layer. Most uniform in appearance, most robust against stains, but with less depth. This is the leather for heavily used areas.
Pull-up, wax, and what "lively" means
With pull-up or wax leathers, the color lightens where the leather is stretched, such as on edges, armrests, and wrinkles. This is intentional and part of its character. The same applies to variations in grain within a single piece: a hide is not fabric from a roll; the neck, back, and flank look different. If you desire a completely uniform surface, pigmented leather or velvet would be more suitable.
Care that truly helps
The most important thing is unspectacular: regularly dust, because dust in combination with friction acts like sandpaper. Immediately absorb stains with a dry, absorbent cloth; do not rub. Apply a leather care product two to three times a year that is suitable for the finish; there are different products for aniline leather than for pigmented leather. All-purpose cleaners, soap, alcohol, and wet wipes are not suitable. And the most common avoidable damage is caused by the sun: direct exposure bleaches leather unevenly, so do not permanently place armchairs in direct sunlight.
Leather in commercial settings
In hotels, restaurants, and law firms, different considerations apply than at home. Pigmented leather is almost always the right choice there, as it can be wiped clean and looks consistent across many pieces. The seams on the edges of dining chairs and bar stools are also crucial, as table edges and footrests can cause abrasion there. Information on selection for commercial settings can be found under Hotel Furnishings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between aniline and pigmented leather?
Aniline leather is only dyed through, open-pored, and very lively, but it absorbs liquids. Pigmented leather has a closed color layer, is more uniform, and significantly more resistant.
Why does leather lighten on the armrests?
With pull-up and wax leathers, the color lightens where the leather is stretched. This is part of its character and not a defect.
Which leather is suitable for hotels and restaurants?
Generally, pigmented leather, because it is wipeable and looks consistent across many pieces. Pay attention to the seams on edges, as table edges and footrests can cause abrasion there.
Consultation by an authorized dealer
Casa Luxury is the interior world of an established, authorized Eichholtz specialist dealer. We are listed in the brand's official dealer directory and provide advice on materials, finishes, and delivery times, both online and in our showroom in Essen. We answer questions about a specific piece at info@casa-luxury.de.
Leather by Eichholtz: Types, Patina, and Suitability for Commercial Use: Models from the Collection
A selection from the areas discussed on this page. Each image leads to the product page.
Further in the guide: Eichholtz Armchairs · Eichholtz Velvet · Eichholtz Care · Eichholtz Quality